Matt Hudson-Smith: I want to become Mayor after Birmingham 2026 win

Matt Hudson-Smith set sights on becoming “Mayor of Birmingham and Wolverhampton” after winning a brilliant gold at Birmingham 2026.

The 31-year-old became the joint most decorated male European athlete of all-time as he claimed a third individual title on his home track at Alexander Stadium.

Hudson-Smith held off the challenge of his rivals down the home straight to the delight of the crowd - before climbing into the stand which has been re-named in his honour to celebrate.

Speaking to the BBC afterward he said: “Honestly, I never dreamt of this. I cannot describe what this means to me.

“I knew I was the best in the world. I knew that. On paper, I was a second faster than these guys.

“My coach said, once you seal the deal, make sure you do it. This is your home. Defend it.

“I knew it would take one hell of an effort to get past me. Every time someone beats me, I kind of end their career.

“I knew that for them to beat me, they would have to have a supernatural moment.

“Nobody is going to beat me on this track. This is my home. I have been here since I was nine. I know this track like the back of my hand.

“I have got my stand. Now I will go for Mayor of Birmingham and Wolverhampton.”

Hudson-Smith also aimed a dig at the BBC after on-air pundits speculated whether he was carrying an injury.

The Olympic silver medallist, who entered the event a clear favourite, was run into second place in Tuesday night’s semi-final.

Hudson-Smith said: “I was watching a BBC Newcast. You guys need to come with the facts, man. Saying I was injured and everything.

“The whole point of rounds is to survive and advance. I tried to conserve rounds.

“Me and my coach were laughing all the way around.

“We have a couple of big races coming up – Diamond League final and the Ultimate Championships. It’s about conserving yourself and getting ready.”